FTC Seeks Public Comments on whether to Repeal, Amend, or Retain Leather Guides

The Federal Trade Commission is seeking public comments on whether it should repeal, amend, or retain the Guides for Select Leather and Imitation Leather Products (Leather Guides) as part of its systematic review of all current FTC rules and guides.

Issued in 1996, the Leather Guides address misrepresentations about the composition and characteristics of specific leather and imitation leather products. The Leather Guides apply to the manufacture, promotion, and distribution of leather and imitation leather purses, luggage, wallets, footwear, and other items, and they state that marketers selling imitation leather products should disclose that the products are not genuine leather.

The notice seeks comment on the continuing need for the Leather Guides, including whether deceptive or unfair advertising and marketing practices are still used to sell leather and imitation leather products, and whether the Leather Guides should cover products that are not currently included—such as automotive and furniture upholstery products.

The Commission vote to approve the Federal Register Notice was 5-0. The notice will be published in the Federal Register soon. Instructions for filing comments appear in the Federal Register Notice, and comments must be received within 60 days after publication. They will be posted at www.ftc.gov/policy/public-comments. (FTC File No. P188014; the staff contact is James R. Golder, Bureau of Consumer Protection, 214-979-9376.)

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